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Glasgow

Practical info Glasgow, United Kingdom

Getting around the city

Glasgow's city centre is compact and easily explored on foot, but public transport will be needed to reach some of the major attractions, which are farther out. The integrated transport network includes a reliable but confusing bus system with connections to the underground and train network. Some routes operate limited services throughout the night. The simple underground system, also known as the Clockwork Orange, has two circular routes that are easy to understand; this is the best way to get between the city centre and the West End. The suburban train network is fast and efficient. Taxis are readily available and provide excellent, if fairly expensive, service. A car is not necessary in the centre, and it is often easier to get around using public transport. Car users can make use of the park-and-ride system at underground stations outside the city centre.

Time

GMT (GMT +1 from last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity

The electrical current in the UK is 230 volts, 50Hz. Flat three-pin plugs are standard.

Currency

The currency is the British Pound (GBP), which is divided into 100 pence. ATMs are available in almost all towns and Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted; visitors with other cards should check with their credit card companies in advance. Foreign currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and large hotels, however better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks.

Communication

The international country dialling code for the UK is +44. Mobile phone coverage is extensive, using GSM 1800 networks which may not be compatible with some dual-band US cell phones. Internet cafes are available in all major towns and cities, train stations and airports and wifi is widely available.

Climate

Like the rest of Scotland, the weather in Glasgow is unpredictable and several degrees colder than England in the south of the British Isles. Winters (December to February) are long and wet, with very cold winds and some snow, and average temperatures ranging from 35°F (1°C) to 45°F (7°C) with seldom a sign of the sun. However, when spring arrives (between March and May) the mild temperatures and colourful flowers in parks and gardens make the city a cheerful place to be. In summer (June to August) most days start off misty but warm up to sunny, mild afternoons, with an average high of 67°F (19°C) in the height of summer.

Glasgow Airport

Getting to the city

Buses leave regularly for Glasgow, stopping off at the main railway and bus stations. The journey to the city centre takes 15 to 20 minutes. There are also eight trains per hour from Paisley Gilmour Street Station to Glasgow Central Station, which is one mile from the airport and can be reached by taxi or by regular bus services.

Car rental

Airport taxi's

Taxis are available 24 hours a day at the taxi rank opposite the main terminal. They are obligated to meter the journey.

Transfer between terminals

A covered walkway connects the terminals.

Facilities

Facilities at Glasgow Airport include ATMs, a bureau de change, a post office, and many shops, bars and restaurants. Disabled facilities are good; those with special needs are advised to inform their airline or travel agent in advance. There is also a multi-faith prayer room.

Parking

Short-term parking is located near the terminal, charging roughly £6 for the first hour, £10 for up to three hours and £16 for up to six hours. Long-term parking is £20 for the first day and £8-£12 per day thereafter. Premium business parking is also available. The airport offers Fast Track Parking for speedy access to the terminal, located on level 2 of Car park 2. Parking can be booked in advance via the airport website.

Internet

Wifi is free for the first hour, £5 for three hours, and £9 for 24 hours.